Real Press Releases
Some weird stuff gets sent here. My favorite of the latest batch:
Michael,
My name is Staff Sgt. Mellissa Novakovich and I work with United States Parachute Team, "Golden Knights." I wanted to inform you that pop-singing sensation Lance Bass will performing a tandem jump with the Team. Please refer to the release below for more details. Please contact me if you are interested.
MEDIA ALERT
FROM OUTER SPACE TO CALIFORNIA AIRSPACE
LANCE BASS TO SKYDIVE WITH U.S. ARMY GOLDEN KNIGHTS
WHAT: Performer and entrepreneur Lance Bass will skydive with the U.S. Army Parachute Team "Golden Knights." The aspiring cosmonaut and thrill-seeker will tandem jump with the highly-skilled and award-winning Golden Knights on a 12,500 foot freefall jump onto the Southern California coast.
This is just so sad.
Tuesday, September 30, 2003
Alert the Media
Shocker of all shockers: A study released Tuesday by Texas A&M's Transporation Institute found that traffic blows everywhere. But it blows the worst in Los Angeles:
Los Angeles spent about 90 hours waiting in traffic in 2001, far more than anywhere else. The San Francisco-Oakland area was next at 68 hours, followed by Denver (64), Miami (63) and Chicago and Phoenix, which tied for fifth (61).
Shocker of all shockers: A study released Tuesday by Texas A&M's Transporation Institute found that traffic blows everywhere. But it blows the worst in Los Angeles:
Los Angeles spent about 90 hours waiting in traffic in 2001, far more than anywhere else. The San Francisco-Oakland area was next at 68 hours, followed by Denver (64), Miami (63) and Chicago and Phoenix, which tied for fifth (61).
The Sale of Silence
L.A.'s Silent Movie Theatre is for sale. Charlie Lustman, who bought the property in 1999, is asking for $2.9 million.
Lustman spruced up the place after buying the theatre, and opened the venue up for events and parties. That, along with the decision to run classic "talkies" mixed in with silent fare, has not made Lustman popular with some purists and movie buffs.
But at least Lustman kept the place alive. The Silent Movie Theatre seemed destined to be closed for good after Lawrence Austin, who ran the place, was murdered at the theatre by a hired gun -- who, it turns out, was put up to the task by the theatre's projectionist, James Van Sickle. Van Sickle was also Austin's live-in lover -- and stood to inherit the theatre.
The story then got weirder -- after Austin's death, it was revealed that he wasn't even the rightful owner of the theatre. He had apparently suckered original owner Dorothy Hampton, who opened the Fairfax-area theatre with husband John in 1941, out of the property's deed.
Lustman bought the property on a whim, and spent $1 million renovating the place. I've only been there once -- and, I'm ashamed to admit, it wasn't even for a silent film. It was for a "Will & Grace" party in 1999. I know, for shame.
According to the L.A. Times' "Hot Property" column, Lustman is looking to move to London, and wants to sell the theatre to an individual or foundation that cares about silent films.
(The property) includes the nearly 3,200-square-foot theater, built in 1942 for showing silent films and completely renovated by Lustman soon after he bought it in 1999; the 5,000-square-foot lot; a 1,066-square-foot back patio; all of the furniture, fixtures and equipment; 210 original, fixed theater seats; new floors in the lounge and offices; silent movie-star portraits, posters and lobby cards; and a film collection of more than 185 titles.
L.A.'s Silent Movie Theatre is for sale. Charlie Lustman, who bought the property in 1999, is asking for $2.9 million.
Lustman spruced up the place after buying the theatre, and opened the venue up for events and parties. That, along with the decision to run classic "talkies" mixed in with silent fare, has not made Lustman popular with some purists and movie buffs.
But at least Lustman kept the place alive. The Silent Movie Theatre seemed destined to be closed for good after Lawrence Austin, who ran the place, was murdered at the theatre by a hired gun -- who, it turns out, was put up to the task by the theatre's projectionist, James Van Sickle. Van Sickle was also Austin's live-in lover -- and stood to inherit the theatre.
The story then got weirder -- after Austin's death, it was revealed that he wasn't even the rightful owner of the theatre. He had apparently suckered original owner Dorothy Hampton, who opened the Fairfax-area theatre with husband John in 1941, out of the property's deed.
Lustman bought the property on a whim, and spent $1 million renovating the place. I've only been there once -- and, I'm ashamed to admit, it wasn't even for a silent film. It was for a "Will & Grace" party in 1999. I know, for shame.
According to the L.A. Times' "Hot Property" column, Lustman is looking to move to London, and wants to sell the theatre to an individual or foundation that cares about silent films.
(The property) includes the nearly 3,200-square-foot theater, built in 1942 for showing silent films and completely renovated by Lustman soon after he bought it in 1999; the 5,000-square-foot lot; a 1,066-square-foot back patio; all of the furniture, fixtures and equipment; 210 original, fixed theater seats; new floors in the lounge and offices; silent movie-star portraits, posters and lobby cards; and a film collection of more than 185 titles.
Monday, September 29, 2003
Still Potent, But No Longer Cheap
We headed over to El Coyote last night to meet up with a friend, whose stepbrother was in town for one last night before flying home to France.
It had been a while since we'd last visited, and I'm proud to report that the margaritas are as potent as ever, while the food.... well, you don't head to El Coyote for the food. You stumble in for the cheap, head-spinning drinks. (Regular margarita, on the rocks, with salt.)
Except for one distressing fact: The margaritas aren't so cheap anymore. At $4.50 a pop, they're probably still worth it, compared to the watered-down concoctions you find at most Mexican dives. But El Coyote is fast losing its biggest selling point.
We headed over to El Coyote last night to meet up with a friend, whose stepbrother was in town for one last night before flying home to France.
It had been a while since we'd last visited, and I'm proud to report that the margaritas are as potent as ever, while the food.... well, you don't head to El Coyote for the food. You stumble in for the cheap, head-spinning drinks. (Regular margarita, on the rocks, with salt.)
Except for one distressing fact: The margaritas aren't so cheap anymore. At $4.50 a pop, they're probably still worth it, compared to the watered-down concoctions you find at most Mexican dives. But El Coyote is fast losing its biggest selling point.
From Blog To Print
Jess has turned her "Jessica's Star Sightings" blog into a regular column for the L.A. Independent free newspaper.
Apparently the editor was purusing the web, and found Jess' site via LABlogs.com. He contacted her and asked if she could write a version for the paper.
This week, Jess spots "Anna Nicole's" Bobby Trendy, Danny Bonaduce on Sunset Blvd. and Chris Kattan at Baja Fresh on Sunset Blvd.
Fastest way to find a celeb, by the way (in case you've got people in from out of town), is to hang out at that Baja Fresh (corner of Sunset and Fairfax) and adjoining Coffee Bean.
Jess has turned her "Jessica's Star Sightings" blog into a regular column for the L.A. Independent free newspaper.
Apparently the editor was purusing the web, and found Jess' site via LABlogs.com. He contacted her and asked if she could write a version for the paper.
This week, Jess spots "Anna Nicole's" Bobby Trendy, Danny Bonaduce on Sunset Blvd. and Chris Kattan at Baja Fresh on Sunset Blvd.
Fastest way to find a celeb, by the way (in case you've got people in from out of town), is to hang out at that Baja Fresh (corner of Sunset and Fairfax) and adjoining Coffee Bean.
Sunday, September 28, 2003
And Yet, I Bet 405-Adjacent Home Prices Have Still Gone Up
Latest scare from the L.A. Daily News: Live next to the 405 in the Valley, get cancer.
Residents who live next to the congested 405 Freeway through the San Fernando Valley are at least twice as likely to develop cancer from breathing vehicle exhaust than those who live next to highly industrial areas, air quality regulators say.
In fact, freeways are the one of largest sources of cancer-causing contaminants in the Los Angeles Basin.
And the stretch of the 405 Freeway from the 118 Freeway to the Sepulveda Pass is the worst in the Valley -- although it ranks well below the ports, LAX and several high-traffic interchanges elsewhere in the region.
Latest scare from the L.A. Daily News: Live next to the 405 in the Valley, get cancer.
Residents who live next to the congested 405 Freeway through the San Fernando Valley are at least twice as likely to develop cancer from breathing vehicle exhaust than those who live next to highly industrial areas, air quality regulators say.
In fact, freeways are the one of largest sources of cancer-causing contaminants in the Los Angeles Basin.
And the stretch of the 405 Freeway from the 118 Freeway to the Sepulveda Pass is the worst in the Valley -- although it ranks well below the ports, LAX and several high-traffic interchanges elsewhere in the region.
Tip O' The Day
Standing in line at the Hillhurst Coffee Bean this morning, couldn't help but hear people ordering their coffee "for here."
You should know by now: Always, always order your Coffee Bean drink -- or Starbucks, or Peet's, or any coffeeshop drink "to go."
Even if you're actually going to sip it on premises, and spend three hours pounding out your hack screenplay. You won't be taxed if you order it "to go." Otherwise, if you tell 'em you're going to drink it there, you're gonna be paying extra.
Now, have I told you yet to get one of those tasty Caramel Apple ice blended drinks? I did? Go get one anyway.
Standing in line at the Hillhurst Coffee Bean this morning, couldn't help but hear people ordering their coffee "for here."
You should know by now: Always, always order your Coffee Bean drink -- or Starbucks, or Peet's, or any coffeeshop drink "to go."
Even if you're actually going to sip it on premises, and spend three hours pounding out your hack screenplay. You won't be taxed if you order it "to go." Otherwise, if you tell 'em you're going to drink it there, you're gonna be paying extra.
Now, have I told you yet to get one of those tasty Caramel Apple ice blended drinks? I did? Go get one anyway.
Hana Hou!
The L.A. Times travel section picks up on Oahu's attempts to beautify some beaches and make long-neglected Waikiki a little less touristy.
In particular, Hanauma Bay had become so popular, tourists (and the trash that came with them) threatened to ruin this amazing reef. Strict guidelines have been in place for the past few years, limiting the number of people who can visit in one day. And it's paid off: The water is clearer, and some of the sealife has returned.
Over in Waikiki, those monstrous hotels on the beach have been undergoing makeover after makeover, as Hawaii continues to struggle from a tourism decline that started in the early 1990s (when Japan's economy went south) and never recovered.
The L.A. Times travel section picks up on Oahu's attempts to beautify some beaches and make long-neglected Waikiki a little less touristy.
In particular, Hanauma Bay had become so popular, tourists (and the trash that came with them) threatened to ruin this amazing reef. Strict guidelines have been in place for the past few years, limiting the number of people who can visit in one day. And it's paid off: The water is clearer, and some of the sealife has returned.
Over in Waikiki, those monstrous hotels on the beach have been undergoing makeover after makeover, as Hawaii continues to struggle from a tourism decline that started in the early 1990s (when Japan's economy went south) and never recovered.
Friday, September 26, 2003
"Huh?!" Of The Day
Leo Gallagher -- he of the smashing-watermelons-for-laughs circuit -- apparently boycotted the Game Show Network special "Who Wants to Be Governor of California" and Jay Leno's invitation to join 90 other candidates on "The Tonight Show" last week because... he was afraid of being mocked.
"Jay Leno has never asked me on the show to do my act. I'm not going to go on there (now) and have somebody make fun of me," he told the San Francisco Chronicle. "I have a lot of serious things to talk about."
Did I mention that this is the man who, 20 years later, still smashes watermelons in his routine for laughs? He must be mocked.
Covering the Game Show Network taping, Chronicle Joe Garofoli talks with candidate and porn star Mary Carey: Carey is the kind of recall candidate who interrupts an interview by saying, apropos of nothing, "I'm really horny."
Leo Gallagher -- he of the smashing-watermelons-for-laughs circuit -- apparently boycotted the Game Show Network special "Who Wants to Be Governor of California" and Jay Leno's invitation to join 90 other candidates on "The Tonight Show" last week because... he was afraid of being mocked.
"Jay Leno has never asked me on the show to do my act. I'm not going to go on there (now) and have somebody make fun of me," he told the San Francisco Chronicle. "I have a lot of serious things to talk about."
Did I mention that this is the man who, 20 years later, still smashes watermelons in his routine for laughs? He must be mocked.
Covering the Game Show Network taping, Chronicle Joe Garofoli talks with candidate and porn star Mary Carey: Carey is the kind of recall candidate who interrupts an interview by saying, apropos of nothing, "I'm really horny."
Curse of the Two-Buck Chuck
Back when we visited Napa in July, we stumbled upon a small winery (Phoenix Vineyards) and ended up talking to the owner. It was a great experience -- he sampled wines straight from the barrel for us. His hands were cracked and red, and he couldn't talk long -- it was time to bottle.
But he was extremely gracious. One of the things we talked about was the impending arrival of the first Trader Joe's in Napa. And you know what that meant: The arrival of Charles Shaw wine -- more popularly known as "Two-Buck Chuck" -- to the region.
Charles Shaw came about when Bronco Wine Co. realized they could buy up excess grapes in the state at a huge discount -- and produce a cheap but still decent wine in the process.
Our friend at the Phoenix Vineyard talked about how "Two-Buck Chuck" was hurting much of the California wine industry. Believe it or not, Charles Shaw made up 12 % of all California wine shipments last year. Trader Joe's is the primary seller of the wine.
Maria and I have downed several bottles through the years -- cheap and tasty stuff, after all. But we've also moved away from it, as we try to expand our palate to more adventuresome (and slightly more expensive) wines.
The L.A. Times today sips on the arrival of Trader Joe's to Napa, and how Two-Buck Chuck has even become a best-seller in Wine Country.
Back when we visited Napa in July, we stumbled upon a small winery (Phoenix Vineyards) and ended up talking to the owner. It was a great experience -- he sampled wines straight from the barrel for us. His hands were cracked and red, and he couldn't talk long -- it was time to bottle.
But he was extremely gracious. One of the things we talked about was the impending arrival of the first Trader Joe's in Napa. And you know what that meant: The arrival of Charles Shaw wine -- more popularly known as "Two-Buck Chuck" -- to the region.
Charles Shaw came about when Bronco Wine Co. realized they could buy up excess grapes in the state at a huge discount -- and produce a cheap but still decent wine in the process.
Our friend at the Phoenix Vineyard talked about how "Two-Buck Chuck" was hurting much of the California wine industry. Believe it or not, Charles Shaw made up 12 % of all California wine shipments last year. Trader Joe's is the primary seller of the wine.
Maria and I have downed several bottles through the years -- cheap and tasty stuff, after all. But we've also moved away from it, as we try to expand our palate to more adventuresome (and slightly more expensive) wines.
The L.A. Times today sips on the arrival of Trader Joe's to Napa, and how Two-Buck Chuck has even become a best-seller in Wine Country.
Thursday, September 25, 2003
Free Kobe Bryant!
Just kidding -- this post has nothing to do with Kobe. A debate is raging over at Don Barrett's LARadio.com site over whether it's accurate to say that the Lakers are aiming to "4-Peat" this season.
It all started when L.A. Clear Channel exec Roy Laughlin -- whose 570 AM KLAC will carry the Lakers games this season -- mentioned on the site that the team was about to go after a "4-Peat."
Never mind that the cliche doesn't even work: "4-Peat"? See, "3-peat" rhymes with "repeat." And even "3-peat" is truly ridiculous. But at least you see where it's coming from.
In response, LARadio.com readers pointed out that you couldn't say the Lakers were going for a "4-Peat" anyway. Hello, they didn't make the finals last year -- so their string ended at three championship titles.
But Laughlin says he'll consider four nonconsecutive wins a "4-peat" as well -- and presumably will promote it as such on KLAC.
"4 wins is a 4 peat as well," he writes the site. "My notes are in some ways are like dog whistles - only the really smart folks can actually understand what I am saying. The less enlightened argue on a base level that is so simplistic I was never going there - like I do not know the Lakers did not win last year? Duh."
Whatever. Here's a new topic: How do radio executives have time on their hands to debate the merits of using the phrase "4-peat"?
Just kidding -- this post has nothing to do with Kobe. A debate is raging over at Don Barrett's LARadio.com site over whether it's accurate to say that the Lakers are aiming to "4-Peat" this season.
It all started when L.A. Clear Channel exec Roy Laughlin -- whose 570 AM KLAC will carry the Lakers games this season -- mentioned on the site that the team was about to go after a "4-Peat."
Never mind that the cliche doesn't even work: "4-Peat"? See, "3-peat" rhymes with "repeat." And even "3-peat" is truly ridiculous. But at least you see where it's coming from.
In response, LARadio.com readers pointed out that you couldn't say the Lakers were going for a "4-Peat" anyway. Hello, they didn't make the finals last year -- so their string ended at three championship titles.
But Laughlin says he'll consider four nonconsecutive wins a "4-peat" as well -- and presumably will promote it as such on KLAC.
"4 wins is a 4 peat as well," he writes the site. "My notes are in some ways are like dog whistles - only the really smart folks can actually understand what I am saying. The less enlightened argue on a base level that is so simplistic I was never going there - like I do not know the Lakers did not win last year? Duh."
Whatever. Here's a new topic: How do radio executives have time on their hands to debate the merits of using the phrase "4-peat"?
Los Angeles? Selfish? You're Kidding Me.
The annual Zagat restaurant survey finds that L.A. residents eat out more than people from any other city in the nation.
But we're also the cheapest. The report, seen here in the Daily News, found that Angelenos tip on average 18 percent -- the lowest of 40 cities surveyed.
On the bright side, the average meal at the 20 priciest restaurants in L.A. costs $66.20, compared to $90.68 in New York. Maybe we can use all that restaurant money we're saving to buy a house we'll never be able to afford. (Bitter much?)
The annual Zagat restaurant survey finds that L.A. residents eat out more than people from any other city in the nation.
But we're also the cheapest. The report, seen here in the Daily News, found that Angelenos tip on average 18 percent -- the lowest of 40 cities surveyed.
On the bright side, the average meal at the 20 priciest restaurants in L.A. costs $66.20, compared to $90.68 in New York. Maybe we can use all that restaurant money we're saving to buy a house we'll never be able to afford. (Bitter much?)
It's Not TV, It's a Recall Election
Feisty Arianna Huffington -- admit it, you loved it when she got all up in Ahnuld's face Wednesday night -- apparently has locked up the cable TV executive vote.
Latest campaign contribution findings show that bigtime MTV exec Judy McGrath donated $2,000, while HBO development chief Carolyn Strauss gave $1,000, both to Arianna's campaign.
Yes, she's a little nuts... but that's what saved last night's debate from being a complete snooze... and it gave Ahnuld plenty of chances to use his over-rehearsed catch phrases. ("I have a part for you in Terminator 4"... guffaw, guffaw.)
Feisty Arianna Huffington -- admit it, you loved it when she got all up in Ahnuld's face Wednesday night -- apparently has locked up the cable TV executive vote.
Latest campaign contribution findings show that bigtime MTV exec Judy McGrath donated $2,000, while HBO development chief Carolyn Strauss gave $1,000, both to Arianna's campaign.
Yes, she's a little nuts... but that's what saved last night's debate from being a complete snooze... and it gave Ahnuld plenty of chances to use his over-rehearsed catch phrases. ("I have a part for you in Terminator 4"... guffaw, guffaw.)
A Little Late and a Dollar Short
What's up with the L.A. Times writing in today's paper about Ryan "Cheesecrest" Seacrest hosting his new Twentieth TV talk show from Hollywood and Highland?
Twentieth announced those plans weeks ago, but the paper acts like it was just announced yesterday. Even more odd, the paper acts like it's a huge deal that a national talk show is broadcasting from Hollywood. But somehow forgets that ABC's "Jimmy Kimmel Live" -- a major show on a broadcast network -- broadcasts live every night from Hollywood, across the street from the shopping complex!
What's up with the L.A. Times writing in today's paper about Ryan "Cheesecrest" Seacrest hosting his new Twentieth TV talk show from Hollywood and Highland?
Twentieth announced those plans weeks ago, but the paper acts like it was just announced yesterday. Even more odd, the paper acts like it's a huge deal that a national talk show is broadcasting from Hollywood. But somehow forgets that ABC's "Jimmy Kimmel Live" -- a major show on a broadcast network -- broadcasts live every night from Hollywood, across the street from the shopping complex!
Wednesday, September 24, 2003
"It's the hottest ticket in New York tonight -- good thing I have a pair!"
That's what my good friend Clarissa said as she left a message in my voice mail. I was supposed to be her plus-one but instead, I'm stuck at work with my life that resembles the movie "A Mighty Wind" right now.
The Dave Matthews Band is having a free concert at Central Park tonight raising money for public schools. You can listen to it online but it's not the same as seeing them live. But, then again, it's better than having no DMB at all.
That's what my good friend Clarissa said as she left a message in my voice mail. I was supposed to be her plus-one but instead, I'm stuck at work with my life that resembles the movie "A Mighty Wind" right now.
The Dave Matthews Band is having a free concert at Central Park tonight raising money for public schools. You can listen to it online but it's not the same as seeing them live. But, then again, it's better than having no DMB at all.
Shawn Amos at the Hotel Cafe
If you're looking for something to do this Saturday night, check out our good friend Shawn Amos at the Hotel Cafe this Saturday, Sept. 27. It will surely be a good show featuring Shawn's haunting lyrics and that great voice.
If you're looking for something to do this Saturday night, check out our good friend Shawn Amos at the Hotel Cafe this Saturday, Sept. 27. It will surely be a good show featuring Shawn's haunting lyrics and that great voice.
Cough, Cough
You know that "haze" you witnessed in Southern California this summer? Call it by its real name: Smog.
Yup, the sky was kickin' it old school this summer, as the Los Angeles region experienced its dirtiest air in six years.
The L.A. Times reports that ozone, the invisible toxic gas that's the prime ingredient in the smog cocktail, hasn't been as bad since 1997. Blame it on hot, stagnant weather and auto/ship/factory/household emissions.
Things were worst up at Lake Arrowhead, which went through 44 days in which ozone exceeded the federal limit. Mmm... nothing like hitting the mountains, breathing in that crisp air... and having an asthma attack.
You know that "haze" you witnessed in Southern California this summer? Call it by its real name: Smog.
Yup, the sky was kickin' it old school this summer, as the Los Angeles region experienced its dirtiest air in six years.
The L.A. Times reports that ozone, the invisible toxic gas that's the prime ingredient in the smog cocktail, hasn't been as bad since 1997. Blame it on hot, stagnant weather and auto/ship/factory/household emissions.
Things were worst up at Lake Arrowhead, which went through 44 days in which ozone exceeded the federal limit. Mmm... nothing like hitting the mountains, breathing in that crisp air... and having an asthma attack.
Tuesday, September 23, 2003
What, Schwarzenegger's Not Showing Up to This, Either?
Alert the media, Game Show Network will tape its recall election contest, "Who Wants to Be Governor of California? The Debating Game," tomorrow night at Cal State University Los Angeles' Luckman Theater.
Kennedy is hosting the special, which will feature Mary Carey ("adult film actress and Gubernatorial candidate"), Gary Coleman ("4 foot-8, Gubernatorial candidate and 35-year-old actor"), Trek Thunder Kelly ("Venice performance artist and Gubernatorial candidate"), Carl Mehr ("senior citizen and Gubernatorial candidate"), Bryan Quinn ("20-year-old student and Gubernatorial candidate") and Nathan Whitecloud Walton ("son of basketball great Bill Walton and Gubernatorial candidate").
Taping begins at 8 p.m. for the special, which will air on the cable network Oct. 1. Bring the kids! (Just shield their eyes when Mary takes her top off.)
Alert the media, Game Show Network will tape its recall election contest, "Who Wants to Be Governor of California? The Debating Game," tomorrow night at Cal State University Los Angeles' Luckman Theater.
Kennedy is hosting the special, which will feature Mary Carey ("adult film actress and Gubernatorial candidate"), Gary Coleman ("4 foot-8, Gubernatorial candidate and 35-year-old actor"), Trek Thunder Kelly ("Venice performance artist and Gubernatorial candidate"), Carl Mehr ("senior citizen and Gubernatorial candidate"), Bryan Quinn ("20-year-old student and Gubernatorial candidate") and Nathan Whitecloud Walton ("son of basketball great Bill Walton and Gubernatorial candidate").
Taping begins at 8 p.m. for the special, which will air on the cable network Oct. 1. Bring the kids! (Just shield their eyes when Mary takes her top off.)
Rate-A-Restaurant, #25 in a series
Restaurant: Il Capriccio
Location: 1757 N. Vermont
Type of restaurant: Italian
They stipulated: Bring your own wine.
What we ordered: Zucchini with corn soup for both so we wouldn't fight over the last spoonfull; Black Tagliolini with Shrimp (Mike); Lobster Ravioli (Maria)
High point: The dishes were put together nicely, each with a distinct flavor. You know how sometimes when you go to an Italian restaurant and everything tastes the same but with a different shape of pasta? Not so here.
Low point: Even though we sat in the patio, I felt like we were the forgotten lone table in the back. The nice waitress was always late catching up to what should happen next as we wait patiently.
Overall impression: Reasonably priced, great food. The clientele seems friendly enough as we exchanged some small talk with the table on either side of us. Plus, BYOB is always a bonus.
Chance we will go back: Yes.
Restaurant: Il Capriccio
Location: 1757 N. Vermont
Type of restaurant: Italian
They stipulated: Bring your own wine.
What we ordered: Zucchini with corn soup for both so we wouldn't fight over the last spoonfull; Black Tagliolini with Shrimp (Mike); Lobster Ravioli (Maria)
High point: The dishes were put together nicely, each with a distinct flavor. You know how sometimes when you go to an Italian restaurant and everything tastes the same but with a different shape of pasta? Not so here.
Low point: Even though we sat in the patio, I felt like we were the forgotten lone table in the back. The nice waitress was always late catching up to what should happen next as we wait patiently.
Overall impression: Reasonably priced, great food. The clientele seems friendly enough as we exchanged some small talk with the table on either side of us. Plus, BYOB is always a bonus.
Chance we will go back: Yes.
Gordon No Longer Jumps
Poor Gordon Jump. The "WKRP in Cincinnati" star (known more recently as the lonely Maytag repairman in commercials) died Monday... just one day after the Emmy Awards.
That means we're going to have to wait an entire year to see him in the "in memoriam" package. He just missed this year's cut.
"As God is my witness, I thought turkeys could fly." -- Mr. Carlson (Jump) on "WKRP in Cincinnati," Episode 8, 1978-1979 season
Poor Gordon Jump. The "WKRP in Cincinnati" star (known more recently as the lonely Maytag repairman in commercials) died Monday... just one day after the Emmy Awards.
That means we're going to have to wait an entire year to see him in the "in memoriam" package. He just missed this year's cut.
"As God is my witness, I thought turkeys could fly." -- Mr. Carlson (Jump) on "WKRP in Cincinnati," Episode 8, 1978-1979 season
Wuss Alert
Lemme get this straight. Rep. Darrell Issa, the spoiled rich boy who got us into this wacky recall in the first place, is now saying he may vote "no" on the recall?!
Here's Issa in the L.A. Times:
"When you vote, if there are still two major Republicans on the ballot, Arnold Schwarzenegger and Tom McClintock, then I advise you to vote no on the recall."
What happened to voting on principle? To seeing this thing you started through? I'm sorry your concoction (bwa-ha-ha-ha!) isn't going as planned, Mr. Car Alarm Man, but now you're sounding even more like a jackass.
Lemme get this straight. Rep. Darrell Issa, the spoiled rich boy who got us into this wacky recall in the first place, is now saying he may vote "no" on the recall?!
Here's Issa in the L.A. Times:
"When you vote, if there are still two major Republicans on the ballot, Arnold Schwarzenegger and Tom McClintock, then I advise you to vote no on the recall."
What happened to voting on principle? To seeing this thing you started through? I'm sorry your concoction (bwa-ha-ha-ha!) isn't going as planned, Mr. Car Alarm Man, but now you're sounding even more like a jackass.
Monday, September 22, 2003
Beverage Advice
We're not one for product placement here at Franklin Avenue, but perhaps someone at the Coffee Bean will stumble onto this site and see us raving about their new, limited-time Caramel Apple Ice Blended drink.
It's truly the drink of the gods. Apple juice blended with vanilla powder, caramel syrup and loads of cinnamon. Like you're drinking a slice of apple pie. Get one before Coffee Bean goes cruel and takes it away from us.
We're not one for product placement here at Franklin Avenue, but perhaps someone at the Coffee Bean will stumble onto this site and see us raving about their new, limited-time Caramel Apple Ice Blended drink.
It's truly the drink of the gods. Apple juice blended with vanilla powder, caramel syrup and loads of cinnamon. Like you're drinking a slice of apple pie. Get one before Coffee Bean goes cruel and takes it away from us.
Sunday, September 21, 2003
Emmyzzzz
I'm off to cover the Emmy awards today. Somehow, the suspense seems to be minimal for this year's awards.
But there are a couple of things to look out for: HBO could very well sweep the two major show awards, if both "The Sopranos" and "Curb Your Enthusiasm" win. That would be a first -- and would probably renew the outrage from the broadcast networks that HBO gets an unfair advantage.
Also, if "Everybody Loves Raymond" wins, that will either convince star Ray Romano that there's still life in the show for another year -- or it may convince him even more that it's time to pack the show's bags, now that it has finally won the top Emmy prize.
I'm just counting the hours until I can down some free drinks at the parties.
I'm off to cover the Emmy awards today. Somehow, the suspense seems to be minimal for this year's awards.
But there are a couple of things to look out for: HBO could very well sweep the two major show awards, if both "The Sopranos" and "Curb Your Enthusiasm" win. That would be a first -- and would probably renew the outrage from the broadcast networks that HBO gets an unfair advantage.
Also, if "Everybody Loves Raymond" wins, that will either convince star Ray Romano that there's still life in the show for another year -- or it may convince him even more that it's time to pack the show's bags, now that it has finally won the top Emmy prize.
I'm just counting the hours until I can down some free drinks at the parties.
Saturday, September 20, 2003
Steps from Home
While the Santa Monica Steps get all the attention, they're not the only major outdoor staircases in town perfect for exercise.
Right here in Los Feliz, at the base of the Franklin Hills, two separate staircases will take you up to the top of the hills -- and offer up a nice (free!) workout in the process.
Radio Walk: A shady, relatively quick sprint up the side of the hill. Word of caution: Some pretty angry dogs are fenced in right at the base of Radio Walk, and may scare you into simply moving over to the other staircase.
Prospect Walk: The longer of the two, Prospect Walk starts at Prospect Ave. (which is usually a east-west street but curves north at the base of the hills) and ascends all the way to the top of the hill. A much longer, but more fufilling climb than Radio Walk. Plus no scary dogs. On the down side, Prospect is not shaded the way Radio Walk is, meaning you'll likely sweat more. But hell, isn't that why you're climbing these steps anyway?
Either staircase, once you get to the top, you'll witness a great view of Hollywood from above. You'll also see some great homes.
For now, five times up/five times down is more than enough. I'm still exhausted just thinking about it. Maria and I did the steps this morning; we usually travel all the way to the Santa Monica steps. The staircases in Santa Monica offer up great ocean views and a cool breeze -- a nice benefit when you're huffing and puffing up the stairs.
But Radio and Prospect walks more than fit the bill for us eastsiders.
While the Santa Monica Steps get all the attention, they're not the only major outdoor staircases in town perfect for exercise.
Right here in Los Feliz, at the base of the Franklin Hills, two separate staircases will take you up to the top of the hills -- and offer up a nice (free!) workout in the process.
Radio Walk: A shady, relatively quick sprint up the side of the hill. Word of caution: Some pretty angry dogs are fenced in right at the base of Radio Walk, and may scare you into simply moving over to the other staircase.
Prospect Walk: The longer of the two, Prospect Walk starts at Prospect Ave. (which is usually a east-west street but curves north at the base of the hills) and ascends all the way to the top of the hill. A much longer, but more fufilling climb than Radio Walk. Plus no scary dogs. On the down side, Prospect is not shaded the way Radio Walk is, meaning you'll likely sweat more. But hell, isn't that why you're climbing these steps anyway?
Either staircase, once you get to the top, you'll witness a great view of Hollywood from above. You'll also see some great homes.
For now, five times up/five times down is more than enough. I'm still exhausted just thinking about it. Maria and I did the steps this morning; we usually travel all the way to the Santa Monica steps. The staircases in Santa Monica offer up great ocean views and a cool breeze -- a nice benefit when you're huffing and puffing up the stairs.
But Radio and Prospect walks more than fit the bill for us eastsiders.
L.A.'s Koreatown, in Transition
New York may be the city of street festivals, but L.A. doesn't do so bad itself. You've got the Italian event that Maria wrote about below, and also today, L.A. will throw a parade in Koreatown marking the 100th anniversary of Korean immigration into the United States.
The L.A. Times takes the opportunity to write about L.A.'s continually rapidly growing Koreatown, which the paper notes has yet to create a real central identity, much as Little Tokyo and Chinatown have in downtown L.A.
Can't argue with that. Those two neighborhoods -- although Little Tokyo seems to continue to shrink -- have a true cohesive feel to them. But again, part of that is because they're located downtown, and both communities represent a much earlier, turn-of-the-century immigration. The much more recent Koreatown represents the suburban-like sprawl found in the rest of L.A.
But where the Times goes wrong is when it also chides Koreatown for not being more inviting to English-speaking visitors. People quoted in the story who say it's too difficult to find restaurants or shopping in the area, but I've never found that to be the case. Plenty of locations cater to both Korean and non-Korean crowds, like the 24-hour BCD Tofu House on Wilshire (yum!), all of the Boba Tea joints that have popped up, most of the karaoke places (where English-speaking songs outnumber Korean songs), the Aroma shopping center (the one with the big flashing video screen promoting its wares on Wilshire) and even, yes, Starbucks.
And of course, don't forget all of the Korean BBQs. My favorite? Probably still Soot Bull Jeep on 8th. Now I'm hungry.
New York may be the city of street festivals, but L.A. doesn't do so bad itself. You've got the Italian event that Maria wrote about below, and also today, L.A. will throw a parade in Koreatown marking the 100th anniversary of Korean immigration into the United States.
The L.A. Times takes the opportunity to write about L.A.'s continually rapidly growing Koreatown, which the paper notes has yet to create a real central identity, much as Little Tokyo and Chinatown have in downtown L.A.
Can't argue with that. Those two neighborhoods -- although Little Tokyo seems to continue to shrink -- have a true cohesive feel to them. But again, part of that is because they're located downtown, and both communities represent a much earlier, turn-of-the-century immigration. The much more recent Koreatown represents the suburban-like sprawl found in the rest of L.A.
But where the Times goes wrong is when it also chides Koreatown for not being more inviting to English-speaking visitors. People quoted in the story who say it's too difficult to find restaurants or shopping in the area, but I've never found that to be the case. Plenty of locations cater to both Korean and non-Korean crowds, like the 24-hour BCD Tofu House on Wilshire (yum!), all of the Boba Tea joints that have popped up, most of the karaoke places (where English-speaking songs outnumber Korean songs), the Aroma shopping center (the one with the big flashing video screen promoting its wares on Wilshire) and even, yes, Starbucks.
And of course, don't forget all of the Korean BBQs. My favorite? Probably still Soot Bull Jeep on 8th. Now I'm hungry.
Friday, September 19, 2003
Ciao Italia
This weekend marks the second annual Feast Of San Gennaro event in Hollywood. A seventy-five-year New York tradition, L.A. is following suit in celebrating Italian culture. Music, carnival games, cultural exhibits, wine and what else, lots of food will be the center of this event.
Join in on the fun or if you choose not to, avoid the Hollywood and Vine -- you'll likely get stuck in traffic.
This weekend marks the second annual Feast Of San Gennaro event in Hollywood. A seventy-five-year New York tradition, L.A. is following suit in celebrating Italian culture. Music, carnival games, cultural exhibits, wine and what else, lots of food will be the center of this event.
Join in on the fun or if you choose not to, avoid the Hollywood and Vine -- you'll likely get stuck in traffic.
Next Time, We'll Just Pay for Admission
As Maria mentioned below, the LACMA invited all of Los Angeles to its all-night party last night.
And all of Los Angeles showed up. (Including this guy.)
It seemed like a good idea on paper: Keep the doors open all night, let people visit the art museum's two major exhibits for free, promote it as a party.
But maybe they promoted it too well, because when we arrived at 9:45 p.m. (the doors opened at 9), the line to get in already snaked around the block, down Wilshire, up to sixth and around the La Brea Tar Pits. Luckily, Maria found some old friends (including her first boss) near the corner of Wilshire and Curson.
Sweet! Well, kinda. Instead of waiting three and a half hours to get in, we only waited two and a half hours to finally make it to the front door (where we saw Darryl Hannah get in without having to wait -- hey, isn't there a statue of limitations on being famous?).
Once inside, we bought some beverages (shoulda been free after that ordeal) and did get to see the "Modigliani & the Artists of the Montparnasse" exhibit.
And indeed, modern artist Amedeo Modigliani's works are amazing, and well worth checking out in person. Plus, there was a cool communal vibe checking out the art with so many people at 1 in the morning.
Given the line outside, the LACMA was letting few people in at any one time. The grounds of the museum were surprisingly sparse, given the number of people in line. I suppose they were taking the "Cabaret LACMA" theme a little to literal, making people wait behind the velvet rope and earn their way inside. (Here's Maria overlooking the LACMA courtyard.)
We finally left at around 2 a.m., when we ran into Rita and Damon, who had just gotten inside after their own three hour wait in line. We gave them our leftover raffle tickets and slowly made it home.
As Maria mentioned below, the LACMA invited all of Los Angeles to its all-night party last night.
And all of Los Angeles showed up. (Including this guy.)
It seemed like a good idea on paper: Keep the doors open all night, let people visit the art museum's two major exhibits for free, promote it as a party.
But maybe they promoted it too well, because when we arrived at 9:45 p.m. (the doors opened at 9), the line to get in already snaked around the block, down Wilshire, up to sixth and around the La Brea Tar Pits. Luckily, Maria found some old friends (including her first boss) near the corner of Wilshire and Curson.
Sweet! Well, kinda. Instead of waiting three and a half hours to get in, we only waited two and a half hours to finally make it to the front door (where we saw Darryl Hannah get in without having to wait -- hey, isn't there a statue of limitations on being famous?).
Once inside, we bought some beverages (shoulda been free after that ordeal) and did get to see the "Modigliani & the Artists of the Montparnasse" exhibit.
And indeed, modern artist Amedeo Modigliani's works are amazing, and well worth checking out in person. Plus, there was a cool communal vibe checking out the art with so many people at 1 in the morning.
Given the line outside, the LACMA was letting few people in at any one time. The grounds of the museum were surprisingly sparse, given the number of people in line. I suppose they were taking the "Cabaret LACMA" theme a little to literal, making people wait behind the velvet rope and earn their way inside. (Here's Maria overlooking the LACMA courtyard.)
We finally left at around 2 a.m., when we ran into Rita and Damon, who had just gotten inside after their own three hour wait in line. We gave them our leftover raffle tickets and slowly made it home.
The Morning Team
R.E.M. launched a new site to promote their new video "Bad Day." The site looks like a mock news page complete with a name plate, a news ticker and talent bios with each member (and some guest players) assuming a fictitious news personality.
Coincidentally, Michael Stipe joins Anderson Cooper tonight on CNN for the premiere of "Bad Day." Debuting on CNN seems like this song has a political stance or it's just synergy at work.
R.E.M. launched a new site to promote their new video "Bad Day." The site looks like a mock news page complete with a name plate, a news ticker and talent bios with each member (and some guest players) assuming a fictitious news personality.
Coincidentally, Michael Stipe joins Anderson Cooper tonight on CNN for the premiere of "Bad Day." Debuting on CNN seems like this song has a political stance or it's just synergy at work.
Aye, Matey!
Was Kevin and Bean's "Talk Like A Pirate" day a lucky or a strange coincidence for Survivor's Pearl Island season premiere last night?
I feel like a pirate with a hangover this morning after last night's jaunt at Cabaret LACMA.
Was Kevin and Bean's "Talk Like A Pirate" day a lucky or a strange coincidence for Survivor's Pearl Island season premiere last night?
I feel like a pirate with a hangover this morning after last night's jaunt at Cabaret LACMA.
Thursday, September 18, 2003
Gone to Market
Unfortunately, the tragedy in Santa Monica a few months ago left a bad taste in people's mouths regarding Farmers' Markets.
FYI, generally, crazed old drivers don't hit outdoor produce stands. You're safe to go. And the L.A. Times has put together a pretty nifty and comprehensive list of area markets -- including a day-by-day guide. Bring me back some snap peas.
Unfortunately, the tragedy in Santa Monica a few months ago left a bad taste in people's mouths regarding Farmers' Markets.
FYI, generally, crazed old drivers don't hit outdoor produce stands. You're safe to go. And the L.A. Times has put together a pretty nifty and comprehensive list of area markets -- including a day-by-day guide. Bring me back some snap peas.
LACMA Cabaret
Tonight, there will be an all-night cabaret party at the Los Angeles County Museum of Art in celebration of their succesful summer season. The event is free and will feature live music from the Conga Room, vacation giveaway and other prizes, film screenings and a free entrance to two exhibits (The French Masterworks exhibit and the Modigliani and the Artists of Montparnasse).
The event starts at 9 pm and ends at 7:30 am the next day. Now, this is the first time I've heard of a major museum throwing an all-night party. Did I mention that the whole thing is free? See you there!
Tonight, there will be an all-night cabaret party at the Los Angeles County Museum of Art in celebration of their succesful summer season. The event is free and will feature live music from the Conga Room, vacation giveaway and other prizes, film screenings and a free entrance to two exhibits (The French Masterworks exhibit and the Modigliani and the Artists of Montparnasse).
The event starts at 9 pm and ends at 7:30 am the next day. Now, this is the first time I've heard of a major museum throwing an all-night party. Did I mention that the whole thing is free? See you there!
Wednesday, September 17, 2003
Second Chances
Just about everyone is decrying the U.S. 9th Circuit Court of Appeals' ruling that the recall election should be postponed.
But the Orange County Register gives a good reason as to why we ought to let the ruling stand: According to the paper, if the vote is pushed to March, those of us not yet on the ballot may have another crack at running for governor!
While 135 candidates may already seem like a lot, I'm still surprised at how few actually made it on the ballot. There ought to be hundreds of B-list character actors chomping at the opportunity. This could be their second chance!
According to the paper:
Riverside County Registrar Mischelle Townsend speculated Tuesday that postponing the recall until March would make it a new election - with a new candidate-filing period. Los Angeles County Chief Deputy Registrar Kristin Heffron said that the filing question is being raised among election officials but that no one has provided an answer.
Just about everyone is decrying the U.S. 9th Circuit Court of Appeals' ruling that the recall election should be postponed.
But the Orange County Register gives a good reason as to why we ought to let the ruling stand: According to the paper, if the vote is pushed to March, those of us not yet on the ballot may have another crack at running for governor!
While 135 candidates may already seem like a lot, I'm still surprised at how few actually made it on the ballot. There ought to be hundreds of B-list character actors chomping at the opportunity. This could be their second chance!
According to the paper:
Riverside County Registrar Mischelle Townsend speculated Tuesday that postponing the recall until March would make it a new election - with a new candidate-filing period. Los Angeles County Chief Deputy Registrar Kristin Heffron said that the filing question is being raised among election officials but that no one has provided an answer.
Spotted on Mike's Commute
Driving the same way to work every morning (Sunset to Wilton to 6th to Masselin/Wilshire, in case you're keeping tabs... and if you are, what's up with that?) gets old fast, which is why I'm constantly looking out for anything out of the ordinary.
And here you go. My favorite grafitti was, until recently, the well-done lettering atop the abandoned Coldwell Company building at Vermont and 6th. But the building's management -- I didn't even realize that it existed -- must have developed some pride, and actually painted over the lettering (which must have been at least 2 stories high).
But never mind that. I've found a new piece of grafitti to love, this time on the side of a brick building on Sunset, across the street from the Home Depot. What's the draw? As his piece de resistance, the tagger actually inserts himself into the grafitti -- a quick drawing, in black, of himself as a figure with a spray can in one hand -- and flipping the world off with the other.
That's right -- I'm assaulted every day on the road by a graffiti artist flipping me and every other commuter off. Pour me some Seattle's Best, and I'm ready to start my morning.
Driving the same way to work every morning (Sunset to Wilton to 6th to Masselin/Wilshire, in case you're keeping tabs... and if you are, what's up with that?) gets old fast, which is why I'm constantly looking out for anything out of the ordinary.
And here you go. My favorite grafitti was, until recently, the well-done lettering atop the abandoned Coldwell Company building at Vermont and 6th. But the building's management -- I didn't even realize that it existed -- must have developed some pride, and actually painted over the lettering (which must have been at least 2 stories high).
But never mind that. I've found a new piece of grafitti to love, this time on the side of a brick building on Sunset, across the street from the Home Depot. What's the draw? As his piece de resistance, the tagger actually inserts himself into the grafitti -- a quick drawing, in black, of himself as a figure with a spray can in one hand -- and flipping the world off with the other.
That's right -- I'm assaulted every day on the road by a graffiti artist flipping me and every other commuter off. Pour me some Seattle's Best, and I'm ready to start my morning.
Tuesday, September 16, 2003
Pirates in Our Midst
Mayrav writes today in her O.C. Register column about the moral quandry that comes with buying a $45 knock-off Prada bag.
The piece reminded me of the time I tagged along with Maria and a friend (who knows who she is, but don't worry, we won't implicate you, Bryant's mom!) downtown as they shopped for fake Kate Spade bags. Or, as they called them, "Fake Spades."
I'm always astounded at how brazen the vendors are downtown in selling clothing and accessory knock-offs, as well as pirated CDs and DVDs. They're all right there in the open.
The unauthorized CDs and DVDs are what really throw me off -- it's one thing to find pirated copies overseas, far away from the U.S. officials monitoring such action. But here we're talking about downtown L.A., just a mile or two from where the product is originally produced! In some cases, it may be quicker to go pick up a DVD of "Seabiscuit" downtown than it would to drive to the megaplex in Burbank!
Not that I would, oh fine entertainment industry folk stumbling upon this site. Just keeping you on your toes.
Mayrav writes today in her O.C. Register column about the moral quandry that comes with buying a $45 knock-off Prada bag.
The piece reminded me of the time I tagged along with Maria and a friend (who knows who she is, but don't worry, we won't implicate you, Bryant's mom!) downtown as they shopped for fake Kate Spade bags. Or, as they called them, "Fake Spades."
I'm always astounded at how brazen the vendors are downtown in selling clothing and accessory knock-offs, as well as pirated CDs and DVDs. They're all right there in the open.
The unauthorized CDs and DVDs are what really throw me off -- it's one thing to find pirated copies overseas, far away from the U.S. officials monitoring such action. But here we're talking about downtown L.A., just a mile or two from where the product is originally produced! In some cases, it may be quicker to go pick up a DVD of "Seabiscuit" downtown than it would to drive to the megaplex in Burbank!
Not that I would, oh fine entertainment industry folk stumbling upon this site. Just keeping you on your toes.
Monday, September 15, 2003
Unfortunate Choice of Words
Recent deaths in the news have led to a few cringe-worthy items in magazine issues we've been thumbing through over the weekend.
To boot: In light of John Ritter's untimely death, due to an undetected heart problem, Entertainment Weekly's blurb on "8 Simple Rules for Dating My Teenage Daughter" (in its Sept. 12 Fall TV Preview issue) is unfortunate:
Be afraid, John Ritter.
"We've earned the right to go to some dark places," says creator Tracy Gamble. "I would like our characters to become more real and bleed more."
He means that literally in the case of the Halloween episode, a parody of Carrie in which high schooler Kerry (Amy Davidson) goes to a dance with boyfriend Kyle (Billy Aaron Brown).
"He's afraid to break up with her, so in his fantasy, it's like Carrie where the tables are flying and people are dying."
If that's not bad enough, the next issue of Entertainment Weekly -- Sept. 19, currently on newsstands -- awards recently passed Johnny Cash as the mag's "Winner of the Week":
After earning six nominations (but winning only one trophy, for cinematography) at the VMAs, Cash saw weekly sales of his 10-month-old CD, American IV: The Man Comes Around, more than double.
Unfortunately, EW went to bed just a day or two before Cash's death.
Then there's the recent People magazine feature on lesser-known siblings of famous people. Included in the profile: Yetunde Price, the half-sister of Venus and Serena Williams; Price was killed in Compton on Sunday.
Recent deaths in the news have led to a few cringe-worthy items in magazine issues we've been thumbing through over the weekend.
To boot: In light of John Ritter's untimely death, due to an undetected heart problem, Entertainment Weekly's blurb on "8 Simple Rules for Dating My Teenage Daughter" (in its Sept. 12 Fall TV Preview issue) is unfortunate:
Be afraid, John Ritter.
"We've earned the right to go to some dark places," says creator Tracy Gamble. "I would like our characters to become more real and bleed more."
He means that literally in the case of the Halloween episode, a parody of Carrie in which high schooler Kerry (Amy Davidson) goes to a dance with boyfriend Kyle (Billy Aaron Brown).
"He's afraid to break up with her, so in his fantasy, it's like Carrie where the tables are flying and people are dying."
If that's not bad enough, the next issue of Entertainment Weekly -- Sept. 19, currently on newsstands -- awards recently passed Johnny Cash as the mag's "Winner of the Week":
After earning six nominations (but winning only one trophy, for cinematography) at the VMAs, Cash saw weekly sales of his 10-month-old CD, American IV: The Man Comes Around, more than double.
Unfortunately, EW went to bed just a day or two before Cash's death.
Then there's the recent People magazine feature on lesser-known siblings of famous people. Included in the profile: Yetunde Price, the half-sister of Venus and Serena Williams; Price was killed in Compton on Sunday.
Latest Guilty Pleasure
I find myself tuning in more often to VH1 Classic, the digital cable channel devoted to music videos from the 70s, 80s and early 90s.
Watching VH1 Classic is akin to watching a TV show or movie that's so bad, it's good. The videos on the channel are completely dated -- I've seen karaoke videos with more production value than Bonnie Tyler's "Holding Out for a Hero," for example. But that's the point. It's a snapshot to a less jaded, more cheesy time.
VH1 Classic airs plenty of memorable videos from our time (just caught REM's "Stand" this morning) but also offers up a heavy dose of kitsch. Bad videos for crappy songs you've completely forgotten about are a treat to rediscover.
Jackson Browne and Clarence Clemons' late 1980s duet about being such good friends. Adrien Belew, with his daughter singing along to "Oh Daddy." Jody Watley, hoop earrings and all, "Lookin' for a New Love."
These are videos from back when MTV played videos. It's almost ironic: Music videos are so much better produced now -- but no one sees them anymore. Yet I still remember these low-budget clips from the 80s -- and can't wait to see them again.
I find myself tuning in more often to VH1 Classic, the digital cable channel devoted to music videos from the 70s, 80s and early 90s.
Watching VH1 Classic is akin to watching a TV show or movie that's so bad, it's good. The videos on the channel are completely dated -- I've seen karaoke videos with more production value than Bonnie Tyler's "Holding Out for a Hero," for example. But that's the point. It's a snapshot to a less jaded, more cheesy time.
VH1 Classic airs plenty of memorable videos from our time (just caught REM's "Stand" this morning) but also offers up a heavy dose of kitsch. Bad videos for crappy songs you've completely forgotten about are a treat to rediscover.
Jackson Browne and Clarence Clemons' late 1980s duet about being such good friends. Adrien Belew, with his daughter singing along to "Oh Daddy." Jody Watley, hoop earrings and all, "Lookin' for a New Love."
These are videos from back when MTV played videos. It's almost ironic: Music videos are so much better produced now -- but no one sees them anymore. Yet I still remember these low-budget clips from the 80s -- and can't wait to see them again.
Saturday, September 13, 2003
Radio Wars
The latest Los Angeles Arbitron trends are in (for mid-summer), and KPWR "Power 106" once again dominates -- although dropping slightly from the start of summer.
The hip-hop station pulled a 4.9 share of radio listeners, while consistent KROQ was once again in second, with a 4.5 share.
Meanwhile, the California recall election hullabaloo hasn't made much of an impact on talk radio. KFI is still in solid third place in the market, with a 4.0 share-- but that's still down from the spring, before recall mania began. And chief rival KABC has actually slightly declined from the start of the summer to now, averaging a 2.6 share (also down from spring).
Not too many surprises elsewhere in the ratings. The full Summer 2003 book comes out next month.
The latest Los Angeles Arbitron trends are in (for mid-summer), and KPWR "Power 106" once again dominates -- although dropping slightly from the start of summer.
The hip-hop station pulled a 4.9 share of radio listeners, while consistent KROQ was once again in second, with a 4.5 share.
Meanwhile, the California recall election hullabaloo hasn't made much of an impact on talk radio. KFI is still in solid third place in the market, with a 4.0 share-- but that's still down from the spring, before recall mania began. And chief rival KABC has actually slightly declined from the start of the summer to now, averaging a 2.6 share (also down from spring).
Not too many surprises elsewhere in the ratings. The full Summer 2003 book comes out next month.
Friday, September 12, 2003
A Proud Alum
Just received an email from Rick Morris, who was our faculty adviser back when I ran WNUR as a Northwestern senior... he writes that Spin Magazine has just selected WNUR as the nation's "Best College Radio Station"!
Not bad at all! I don't listen to WNUR on the web as often as I used to, but this gives me reason to check in and see how it sounds these days. This is a nice jolt for the WNUR crew as they head to the CMJ conference in New York.
Just received an email from Rick Morris, who was our faculty adviser back when I ran WNUR as a Northwestern senior... he writes that Spin Magazine has just selected WNUR as the nation's "Best College Radio Station"!
Not bad at all! I don't listen to WNUR on the web as often as I used to, but this gives me reason to check in and see how it sounds these days. This is a nice jolt for the WNUR crew as they head to the CMJ conference in New York.
John Ritter 1948-2003; Johnny Cash 1932-2003
I'm usually one of the first to make a morbid joke when a celebrity dies; perhaps it's my way of dealing with mortality.
But no jokes today. In particular, Ritter's sudden death last night, at the young age of 55, is truly a sad shock. By all accounts, he was one of the good guys in TV. The fact that he collapsed on the set of his TV show, with no previous sign of heart trouble, makes it all the more tragic. RIP, Jack Tripper, and you too, Man In Black.
I'm usually one of the first to make a morbid joke when a celebrity dies; perhaps it's my way of dealing with mortality.
But no jokes today. In particular, Ritter's sudden death last night, at the young age of 55, is truly a sad shock. By all accounts, he was one of the good guys in TV. The fact that he collapsed on the set of his TV show, with no previous sign of heart trouble, makes it all the more tragic. RIP, Jack Tripper, and you too, Man In Black.
Wrecking Ball Madness
Yet another Hollywood landmark is threatened with demolition: The Florentine Gardens.
While known in recent years as being a cheesy, all-ages dance club, th Florentine Gardens' history comes as one of Hollywood's legendary night spots.
The city, however, is claiming "eminent domain" and is looking to take over, tear down the property and build a fire house there.
"Eminent domain" has been the tool, of course, of the school district in recent years, as it grabs land to build new schools. The new schools are needed, of course, but structures lost in the process include the Hollywood Star Lanes bowling alley.
While many of Hollywood's old haunts were torn down in the go-go 80s (including most of the Brown Derby restaurants), we seem to be experiencing a new wave. Another one-time Hollywood haunt, Perino's (on Wilshire Blvd.) is slated to be knocked down for apartments.
Yet another Hollywood landmark is threatened with demolition: The Florentine Gardens.
While known in recent years as being a cheesy, all-ages dance club, th Florentine Gardens' history comes as one of Hollywood's legendary night spots.
The city, however, is claiming "eminent domain" and is looking to take over, tear down the property and build a fire house there.
"Eminent domain" has been the tool, of course, of the school district in recent years, as it grabs land to build new schools. The new schools are needed, of course, but structures lost in the process include the Hollywood Star Lanes bowling alley.
While many of Hollywood's old haunts were torn down in the go-go 80s (including most of the Brown Derby restaurants), we seem to be experiencing a new wave. Another one-time Hollywood haunt, Perino's (on Wilshire Blvd.) is slated to be knocked down for apartments.
Thursday, September 11, 2003
This is How We Do Things in the OC, Bitch!
From the L.A. Times:
Left alone in an expensive Laguna Niguel home with her parents undergoing a divorce, the 22-year-old daughter of a construction executive built an elaborate methamphetamine laboratory that spread throughout the house, authorities said Wednesday.
Deputies searched the home and found drug paraphernalia and methamphetamine "in virtually every single room in the house," Amormino said. Methamphetamine production is a complex and dangerous operation that exposes people to toxic chemicals. Elaborate precautions are needed to safely dismantle such labs.
Amormino said investigators aren't sure how long the lab had been operating at the home, a white, two-story Mediterranean house with arched windows, palms trees and a red tile roof.
The home belongs to Volz's mother, Gina Peterson, a homemaker, and her stepfather, George Peterson, president of an Irvine construction and development company that oversees the Dana Point Harbor renovations.
With their divorce in progress, the couple live in separate homes and had left the Laguna Niguel house in their daughter's hands, investigators said.
From the L.A. Times:
Left alone in an expensive Laguna Niguel home with her parents undergoing a divorce, the 22-year-old daughter of a construction executive built an elaborate methamphetamine laboratory that spread throughout the house, authorities said Wednesday.
Deputies searched the home and found drug paraphernalia and methamphetamine "in virtually every single room in the house," Amormino said. Methamphetamine production is a complex and dangerous operation that exposes people to toxic chemicals. Elaborate precautions are needed to safely dismantle such labs.
Amormino said investigators aren't sure how long the lab had been operating at the home, a white, two-story Mediterranean house with arched windows, palms trees and a red tile roof.
The home belongs to Volz's mother, Gina Peterson, a homemaker, and her stepfather, George Peterson, president of an Irvine construction and development company that oversees the Dana Point Harbor renovations.
With their divorce in progress, the couple live in separate homes and had left the Laguna Niguel house in their daughter's hands, investigators said.
A Gathering Place
Los Angeles is finally one step closer to forming a real central park, according to the Times. The paper reports that a $1.2 billion plan to bring a real downtown focal point, coupled with a new retail and entertainment complex, has gained momentum now that L.A. County officials have voted to form a joint city-county authority to oversee the proposal.
The park would stretch between City Hall on Spring Street and the Department of Water and Power on Bunker Hill, while the new apartment/shopping/entertainment complex would be built close by, where a parking lot currently stands.
The city is expected to approve the new committee as well. Next step: Figuring out just where the money will come from.
According to the paper:
The park would connect those sites to the mall that fronts the county Hall of Administration and courthouse between Hill Street and Grand Avenue, and to the Music Center Plaza between Grand Avenue and Hope Street. It would include stands of trees, ponds and open fields atop an underground parking structure.
Los Angeles is finally one step closer to forming a real central park, according to the Times. The paper reports that a $1.2 billion plan to bring a real downtown focal point, coupled with a new retail and entertainment complex, has gained momentum now that L.A. County officials have voted to form a joint city-county authority to oversee the proposal.
The park would stretch between City Hall on Spring Street and the Department of Water and Power on Bunker Hill, while the new apartment/shopping/entertainment complex would be built close by, where a parking lot currently stands.
The city is expected to approve the new committee as well. Next step: Figuring out just where the money will come from.
According to the paper:
The park would connect those sites to the mall that fronts the county Hall of Administration and courthouse between Hill Street and Grand Avenue, and to the Music Center Plaza between Grand Avenue and Hope Street. It would include stands of trees, ponds and open fields atop an underground parking structure.
Wednesday, September 10, 2003
Reunited... Hopefully it Feels So Good
Having broke up a decade ago, The Pixies are finally talking about reuniting for a new album and tour. This monkey's gone to heaven.
Having broke up a decade ago, The Pixies are finally talking about reuniting for a new album and tour. This monkey's gone to heaven.
Don't Blink... You Missed It
Radio watchers have been wondering for months whether Viacom's Infinity radio would import its female-driven "Blink" radio format, heard on WNEW-FM 102.7 in New York, to Los Angeles.
It ain't going to happen. Instead, Infinity is about to eliminate the lackluster format in New York.
"Blink 102.7" debuted to much fanfare in April, as the station launched with a strong dose of lite modern rock (think "Star 98.7") and a heavy emphasis on entertainment news. "Entertainment Tonight" reporter Chris Booker and J. Lo's sis Lynda Lopez hosted the morning show.
But "Blink" never caught on. Its music mix was a mess. No one quite understood the format -- or who it was targeted to. Instead, Infinity will pull the plug this Friday.
Here in L.A., big money was on KCBS-FM "Arrow 93.1" switching its format to "Blink." Obviously that's not happening, so classic rock fans, you can rest for now.
Radio watchers have been wondering for months whether Viacom's Infinity radio would import its female-driven "Blink" radio format, heard on WNEW-FM 102.7 in New York, to Los Angeles.
It ain't going to happen. Instead, Infinity is about to eliminate the lackluster format in New York.
"Blink 102.7" debuted to much fanfare in April, as the station launched with a strong dose of lite modern rock (think "Star 98.7") and a heavy emphasis on entertainment news. "Entertainment Tonight" reporter Chris Booker and J. Lo's sis Lynda Lopez hosted the morning show.
But "Blink" never caught on. Its music mix was a mess. No one quite understood the format -- or who it was targeted to. Instead, Infinity will pull the plug this Friday.
Here in L.A., big money was on KCBS-FM "Arrow 93.1" switching its format to "Blink." Obviously that's not happening, so classic rock fans, you can rest for now.
Downloading Don'ts
In looking for file traders to sue, apparently the meanies at the RIAA have created a short list of target files that users may be sharing online.
According to an MSN story, the organization has employed automated tools to sniff out computer users sharing files including the songs:
Bobby McFerrin, “Don’t Worry, Be Happy”
Thompson Twins, “Hold Me Now”
Eagles, “Hotel California”
George Michael, “Kissing A Fool”
Paula Abdul, “Knocked Out”
Green Day, “Minority”
UB40, “Red Red Wine”
Ludacris “Area Codes”
Marvin Gaye, “Sexual Healing”
Avril Lavigne, “Complicated”
The lesson: Don't download worn-out songs you can hear any old day on some cheesy adult contemporary station anyway. (OK, I doubt KOST or KBIG are playing Ludacris. But otherwise...) The RIAA's going to sue you. Otherwise, download away! Whoo-hoo! Or don't.
In looking for file traders to sue, apparently the meanies at the RIAA have created a short list of target files that users may be sharing online.
According to an MSN story, the organization has employed automated tools to sniff out computer users sharing files including the songs:
Bobby McFerrin, “Don’t Worry, Be Happy”
Thompson Twins, “Hold Me Now”
Eagles, “Hotel California”
George Michael, “Kissing A Fool”
Paula Abdul, “Knocked Out”
Green Day, “Minority”
UB40, “Red Red Wine”
Ludacris “Area Codes”
Marvin Gaye, “Sexual Healing”
Avril Lavigne, “Complicated”
The lesson: Don't download worn-out songs you can hear any old day on some cheesy adult contemporary station anyway. (OK, I doubt KOST or KBIG are playing Ludacris. But otherwise...) The RIAA's going to sue you. Otherwise, download away! Whoo-hoo! Or don't.
And the Pictures Keep Coming
Latest Mike's Birthday Race shots come from Louie and Tom, who share about 80 shots here. Again, Buzznet is the host of choice for said pics. Yay Buzznet!
Meanwhile, for a complete list of links to all of the event's online photos, go to the Birthday blog.
Latest Mike's Birthday Race shots come from Louie and Tom, who share about 80 shots here. Again, Buzznet is the host of choice for said pics. Yay Buzznet!
Meanwhile, for a complete list of links to all of the event's online photos, go to the Birthday blog.
Tuesday, September 9, 2003
Film Fest
The Silverlake Film Festival is starting tomorrow. This is the fourth year and this time the highlights include:
The Korean Quentin Tarantino... undiscovered local talent... the premiere of the world's first French anime feature... a stand-up comedian who may be America's best hope for political justice... a real-life encounter with a silent film superstar... and a blues and rock series that melds nonfiction films with live performances.
Saturday night will feature a gala honoring John C. Reilly, our neighbor (we've seen him at the local Trader Joe's and at an open house). Anyway, there seems to be a flurry of events surrounding the festival and $200 buys you an all-access festival pass.
We passed on the pass but picked a couple of interesting flicks. Go on, support the arts!
The Silverlake Film Festival is starting tomorrow. This is the fourth year and this time the highlights include:
The Korean Quentin Tarantino... undiscovered local talent... the premiere of the world's first French anime feature... a stand-up comedian who may be America's best hope for political justice... a real-life encounter with a silent film superstar... and a blues and rock series that melds nonfiction films with live performances.
Saturday night will feature a gala honoring John C. Reilly, our neighbor (we've seen him at the local Trader Joe's and at an open house). Anyway, there seems to be a flurry of events surrounding the festival and $200 buys you an all-access festival pass.
We passed on the pass but picked a couple of interesting flicks. Go on, support the arts!
Monday, September 8, 2003
Extreme Makeover
TV Guide, what have you done?
The magazine's redesign, out on newsstands today, goes too far in some places -- and not far enough in others.
Let's start with what bugs me the most: TV Guide's new logo. (I know, I'm a nerd. Sorry. But while the rest of you were collecting comic books, action figures or dolls growing up, I was collecting TV Guide.) Bad, bad, bad. It's shorter and wider. The word "GUIDE" takes up way too much room, while the word "TV" has been shrunk. A new logo was not necessary at all.
And insult to injury: Under the new logo, the magazine prints its new creepy tagline: "We See Everything." Huh? Define everything, oh omniscient TV Guide, because you have my home address.
Inside, much of the glossy page layout relies on an unattractive blue-red-yellow color scheme. The bright yellow is used to highlight words and paragraphs, as if this were a term paper.
Speaking of the glossy section, I can appreciate that it seems more newsy. But it's also more wordy. Too much grey, broken up by too many small department logos with uninspiring colors.
As for the program listings, TV Guide has expanded its primetime grids, which was necessary in this age of 500 channels. But it has also eliminated the weekday listings in place of one grid for use over the entire week. Several channels, as a result, are listed as airing "Various Programs." (That's a problem if it's Wednesday morning, and I want to see what's on Comedy Central. "Various Programs" doesn't cut it.)
On the plus side, I can appreciate this week's Fall Preview cover -- an homage to a classic 1957 cover with the colorful image of a single eye.
Overall, I can live with the new redesign. Except for the new logo. The strange tagline. And the overuse of the "highlighter yellow."
TV Guide, what have you done?
The magazine's redesign, out on newsstands today, goes too far in some places -- and not far enough in others.
Let's start with what bugs me the most: TV Guide's new logo. (I know, I'm a nerd. Sorry. But while the rest of you were collecting comic books, action figures or dolls growing up, I was collecting TV Guide.) Bad, bad, bad. It's shorter and wider. The word "GUIDE" takes up way too much room, while the word "TV" has been shrunk. A new logo was not necessary at all.
And insult to injury: Under the new logo, the magazine prints its new creepy tagline: "We See Everything." Huh? Define everything, oh omniscient TV Guide, because you have my home address.
Inside, much of the glossy page layout relies on an unattractive blue-red-yellow color scheme. The bright yellow is used to highlight words and paragraphs, as if this were a term paper.
Speaking of the glossy section, I can appreciate that it seems more newsy. But it's also more wordy. Too much grey, broken up by too many small department logos with uninspiring colors.
As for the program listings, TV Guide has expanded its primetime grids, which was necessary in this age of 500 channels. But it has also eliminated the weekday listings in place of one grid for use over the entire week. Several channels, as a result, are listed as airing "Various Programs." (That's a problem if it's Wednesday morning, and I want to see what's on Comedy Central. "Various Programs" doesn't cut it.)
On the plus side, I can appreciate this week's Fall Preview cover -- an homage to a classic 1957 cover with the colorful image of a single eye.
Overall, I can live with the new redesign. Except for the new logo. The strange tagline. And the overuse of the "highlighter yellow."
Stadium Woes
Is the Los Angeles Coliseum to ill-equipped to house another NFL team? Would a remodel destroy the historical aspects of the structure? Is it just too jinxed?
The Daily News asks some of those questions in the second installment of its package on the three proposed NFL stadium sites. I think it's a shame that the Coliseum goes empty most of the year... but it would also be horrifying to see the stadium lose all of its historical charm should it be completely refurbished.
Is the Los Angeles Coliseum to ill-equipped to house another NFL team? Would a remodel destroy the historical aspects of the structure? Is it just too jinxed?
The Daily News asks some of those questions in the second installment of its package on the three proposed NFL stadium sites. I think it's a shame that the Coliseum goes empty most of the year... but it would also be horrifying to see the stadium lose all of its historical charm should it be completely refurbished.
Sunday, September 7, 2003
Honda... The Silent Killer
I've become convinced in recent weeks that my new Honda CR-V is out to do me and Maria some harm.
Climbing out of the car and slamming the door has become a painful experience, as almost inevitably I'm treated to a rather strong static shock. The kind that create a big spark at night. The kind that starts at your hand but quickly travels through your body. Ouch.
So I've taken to finding unique ways to shut the car door, as long as it doesn't involve actually touching the side of the door with my hands. I'll use my bag, a spare napkin or even my elbow to slam it shut. (Well, my elbow retired from duty when it, too, was shocked last week.) Next step: Keeping a box of rubber gloves in the car, at my fingertips.
Meanwhile, Maria has now been hit twice by the passenger door, once on her forehead, and once -- just today -- on her leg. Both incidents have been mighty painful. I'm blaming the car for now, although Maria may just be a clutz. (Evidence: Her car has hit her quite a few times too.)
Still, for sake of argument, further proof that the car has it in for us. Perhaps we haven't been nurturing enough. Maybe it doesn't quite feel a part of the family yet, particularly on the weekends, when I park it on the street and the car is splashed by errant sprinklers.
I'm hoping things will change when the new car's license plates finally arrive from the DMV. At that point, it will finally have a name.
In the meantime, if you need any plastic gloves, I've got a box of 'em in the back seat.
I've become convinced in recent weeks that my new Honda CR-V is out to do me and Maria some harm.
Climbing out of the car and slamming the door has become a painful experience, as almost inevitably I'm treated to a rather strong static shock. The kind that create a big spark at night. The kind that starts at your hand but quickly travels through your body. Ouch.
So I've taken to finding unique ways to shut the car door, as long as it doesn't involve actually touching the side of the door with my hands. I'll use my bag, a spare napkin or even my elbow to slam it shut. (Well, my elbow retired from duty when it, too, was shocked last week.) Next step: Keeping a box of rubber gloves in the car, at my fingertips.
Meanwhile, Maria has now been hit twice by the passenger door, once on her forehead, and once -- just today -- on her leg. Both incidents have been mighty painful. I'm blaming the car for now, although Maria may just be a clutz. (Evidence: Her car has hit her quite a few times too.)
Still, for sake of argument, further proof that the car has it in for us. Perhaps we haven't been nurturing enough. Maybe it doesn't quite feel a part of the family yet, particularly on the weekends, when I park it on the street and the car is splashed by errant sprinklers.
I'm hoping things will change when the new car's license plates finally arrive from the DMV. At that point, it will finally have a name.
In the meantime, if you need any plastic gloves, I've got a box of 'em in the back seat.
Saturday, September 6, 2003
Weekend in Los Angeles
One of our lazier weekends here in quite some time. No Birthday Races to plan, no big family gatherings, no work-related events... just a regular weekend.
And yet, some moments to point out:
:: Maria and I saw American Splendor this weekend. Actually, check that. I saw 100% of "American Splendor" this weekend, while sleepy Maria caught about 50%.
Paul Giamatti, who plays cartoonist Harvey Pekar, truly animates this movie. Not an easy task, considering Pekar himself also appears throughout the movie as... Harvey Pekar. It's one of the many quirks in this film that seem off-putting at first, but then eventually work.
One of my favorite expressionless actresses, Hope Davis (c'mon! Have you ever seen her crack a smile in any film?) also stars. Coincidentally, Showtime this weekend aired the 1996 film "The Daytrippers," which also starred Davis, along with Stanley Tucci, Anne Meara, Parker Posey (steals the movie, as always) and Liev Shreiber. Not to get off on a tangent (too late, Mike), but "The Daytrippers" is truly a wonderful movie to catch by random on a Saturday morning. Slow, lazy, funny and smart.
Back to "American Splendor": Excellent movie experience -- save for the several Inappropriately Laughing Moviegoers who all decided to attend the same screening at the Vista. I mean, seriously. What's wrong with these people? One audience member in particular, sitting three seats down from me, kept giggling during the scenes in which Pekar was battling with cancer. Yeah, funny stuff.
Final note: I can't stress enough how great it is to see a movie at the Vista.
:: Horrible accident Saturday in the neighborhood. A vehicle (couldn't tell if it was a car or larger) driving on Los Feliz Blvd. above the 5 freeway somehow careened off the side of the bridge, landing smack dab on the freeway's southbound lane.
The vehicle tore part of the Los Feliz Blvd. bridge's railing along with it. I seriously doubt the car's driver and passengers (if any) could have survived this. Maria and I saw the commotion (fire trucks, ambulances, etc.) as we got on the 5 (the Los Feliz Blvd. northbound onramp is actually right before the bridge). We saw the activity below and wondered what was going on... and then looked up and saw the bridge's railing torn clear off. Horrible.
:: After watching Maria's sis Kat earn her yellow belt in Krav Maga (think karate, but with an Israeli spin) at the Chatsworth karate studio where she takes it, we headed over to Van Nuys to check out the newest L&L Drive Inn on the mainland.
That's right, ex-pat Hawaii folk... we can now get ono plate lunches in the Valley. Ahh, nothing says loads of carbs and calories like two scoops rice, macaroni salad and chicken katsu, BBQ beef or breaded mahi mahi. Da kine grinds!
One of our lazier weekends here in quite some time. No Birthday Races to plan, no big family gatherings, no work-related events... just a regular weekend.
And yet, some moments to point out:
:: Maria and I saw American Splendor this weekend. Actually, check that. I saw 100% of "American Splendor" this weekend, while sleepy Maria caught about 50%.
Paul Giamatti, who plays cartoonist Harvey Pekar, truly animates this movie. Not an easy task, considering Pekar himself also appears throughout the movie as... Harvey Pekar. It's one of the many quirks in this film that seem off-putting at first, but then eventually work.
One of my favorite expressionless actresses, Hope Davis (c'mon! Have you ever seen her crack a smile in any film?) also stars. Coincidentally, Showtime this weekend aired the 1996 film "The Daytrippers," which also starred Davis, along with Stanley Tucci, Anne Meara, Parker Posey (steals the movie, as always) and Liev Shreiber. Not to get off on a tangent (too late, Mike), but "The Daytrippers" is truly a wonderful movie to catch by random on a Saturday morning. Slow, lazy, funny and smart.
Back to "American Splendor": Excellent movie experience -- save for the several Inappropriately Laughing Moviegoers who all decided to attend the same screening at the Vista. I mean, seriously. What's wrong with these people? One audience member in particular, sitting three seats down from me, kept giggling during the scenes in which Pekar was battling with cancer. Yeah, funny stuff.
Final note: I can't stress enough how great it is to see a movie at the Vista.
:: Horrible accident Saturday in the neighborhood. A vehicle (couldn't tell if it was a car or larger) driving on Los Feliz Blvd. above the 5 freeway somehow careened off the side of the bridge, landing smack dab on the freeway's southbound lane.
The vehicle tore part of the Los Feliz Blvd. bridge's railing along with it. I seriously doubt the car's driver and passengers (if any) could have survived this. Maria and I saw the commotion (fire trucks, ambulances, etc.) as we got on the 5 (the Los Feliz Blvd. northbound onramp is actually right before the bridge). We saw the activity below and wondered what was going on... and then looked up and saw the bridge's railing torn clear off. Horrible.
:: After watching Maria's sis Kat earn her yellow belt in Krav Maga (think karate, but with an Israeli spin) at the Chatsworth karate studio where she takes it, we headed over to Van Nuys to check out the newest L&L Drive Inn on the mainland.
That's right, ex-pat Hawaii folk... we can now get ono plate lunches in the Valley. Ahh, nothing says loads of carbs and calories like two scoops rice, macaroni salad and chicken katsu, BBQ beef or breaded mahi mahi. Da kine grinds!
L.A. by Snapshot
As my growing library of Los Angeles-themed books attest, I'm always hungry for shots of old Los Angeles -- particularly downtown and Hollywood.
The Downtown News reminded me via an article last week of the Central Library's online historical photography collection.
The Central Library's overall collection contains over 2.5 million shots, with about 40,000 historic L.A. shots available for viewing -- and for ordering prints -- on the web. I definitely need to get my hands on some of these classic prints. Broadway theaters, Red Cars, old Angel's Flight shots, Bunker Hill back when Victorian homes dotted the landscape -- this collection is truly amazing.
As my growing library of Los Angeles-themed books attest, I'm always hungry for shots of old Los Angeles -- particularly downtown and Hollywood.
The Downtown News reminded me via an article last week of the Central Library's online historical photography collection.
The Central Library's overall collection contains over 2.5 million shots, with about 40,000 historic L.A. shots available for viewing -- and for ordering prints -- on the web. I definitely need to get my hands on some of these classic prints. Broadway theaters, Red Cars, old Angel's Flight shots, Bunker Hill back when Victorian homes dotted the landscape -- this collection is truly amazing.
Friday, September 5, 2003
Hollyrecall
Latest celeb contributors to the recall race include Paul Reiser, who donated $2,000 to Arianna, and Kelsey Grammer, who forked over $1,000 for Ahnuld.
Geez, where did Kelsey (weekly salary: $1.6 million) ever scrape up $1,000? And what's his connection to Arnold anyway?
Latest celeb contributors to the recall race include Paul Reiser, who donated $2,000 to Arianna, and Kelsey Grammer, who forked over $1,000 for Ahnuld.
Geez, where did Kelsey (weekly salary: $1.6 million) ever scrape up $1,000? And what's his connection to Arnold anyway?
Thursday, September 4, 2003
Friendster, I'm Afraid
Our friends Karen and Joe had told us how addicting Friendster is and since then, other friends have talked about it. Recently, I received two invitations from different circles of friends to join in but I'm hesitant.
According to the e-mail, I can use Friendster to:
* Meet new people to date, through your friends and their friends (Since last year, I've retired from dating.)
* Make new friends (How many more friends does a girl need?)
* Help your friends meet new people (This is good, I'm forever watching out for my single friends.)
Any thoughts? Should I join?
Our friends Karen and Joe had told us how addicting Friendster is and since then, other friends have talked about it. Recently, I received two invitations from different circles of friends to join in but I'm hesitant.
According to the e-mail, I can use Friendster to:
* Meet new people to date, through your friends and their friends (Since last year, I've retired from dating.)
* Make new friends (How many more friends does a girl need?)
* Help your friends meet new people (This is good, I'm forever watching out for my single friends.)
Any thoughts? Should I join?
A Less Trashy L.A. river
I talked to someone last weekend who didn't realize that there even was a Los Angeles river.
Which is probably fine, given how horrified this person would be to see said river. At least the city and county have now agreed to spend $168 million to reduce the trash in the L.A. River by half.
I talked to someone last weekend who didn't realize that there even was a Los Angeles river.
Which is probably fine, given how horrified this person would be to see said river. At least the city and county have now agreed to spend $168 million to reduce the trash in the L.A. River by half.
Dereg-a-palooza?
Just when you thought media deregulation was a speeding train that couldn't be stopped, the tide seems to be turning -- at least for now.
The latest punch to the FCC's groin came yesterday, when a Philadelphia appeals court issued a stay blocking the FCC's recent bid to relax media ownership rules. That means, for one thing, station groups won't be able to expand their size as soon as they thought.
It's hard to tell whether this sudden deregulation backlash is temporary, or if the FCC and media congloms have finally touched a nerve. If anything, biggies like Viacom and News Corp. should be sending nasty glances toward Clear Channel's way. Clear Channel's rush to consume a lion's share of the nation's radio stations made a mockery out of radio deregulation, scaring plenty of people into wanting to prevent any more dereg.
As a result, relaxing the rules is not going to be as easy as the media congloms thought.
Just when you thought media deregulation was a speeding train that couldn't be stopped, the tide seems to be turning -- at least for now.
The latest punch to the FCC's groin came yesterday, when a Philadelphia appeals court issued a stay blocking the FCC's recent bid to relax media ownership rules. That means, for one thing, station groups won't be able to expand their size as soon as they thought.
It's hard to tell whether this sudden deregulation backlash is temporary, or if the FCC and media congloms have finally touched a nerve. If anything, biggies like Viacom and News Corp. should be sending nasty glances toward Clear Channel's way. Clear Channel's rush to consume a lion's share of the nation's radio stations made a mockery out of radio deregulation, scaring plenty of people into wanting to prevent any more dereg.
As a result, relaxing the rules is not going to be as easy as the media congloms thought.
Wednesday, September 3, 2003
Five Reasons to Get Your Ass to Catalina (and a Few Reasons Not To)
After crowning the Mike's Birthday Race champs, Maria and I headed off to Avalon, on Santa Catalina Island, for a night. The island has been on our list of places to explore for years, and seemed like the perfect place to go away, but not too far away. And it truly was.
If anything, it's worth going just to satisfy your curiosity. I've heard random mentions of Catalina for years, such as how everyone drives around in golf carts, or how the Chicago Cubs used to spring train there when the team was owned by the Wrigley family, but I've never gotten a firm grasp on what the island looks like, or how it feels.
Hence the one-hour boat ride from San Pedro to Avalon. Not a bad ride at all -- Maria took her Dramamine, so she was all right, and I managed to get through only two sections of the Monday paper. We arrived and checked in at the Pavilion Lodge, which sports a boutique hotel-style look and feel after a multimillion dollar renovation. The hotel is right next to the waterfront. Actually, given how small the town is, everything is next to the waterfront.
Five reasons why heading to Avalon, even for the day, is worth your while:
1. The Casino Ballroom
You've seen this 12-story building for years, in photos or in live shots behind Johnny Mountain, Fritz Coleman or Dallas Raines as they read the forecast. The building is truly as amazing as it looks. Take the tour to check out the inside of the Avalon Theater (located below the ballroom), which looks more grand than any of the worn downtown Broadway theaters -- but unlike those theaters, this one still shows a movie every night. The upstairs ballroom offers up amazing views, and transports you back to the Big Band era.
2. The novelty of it all
There's just something odd about this town. Everything's so small. Souped-up golf carts line the streets. Fast food hasn't made a dent here. You can walk around the entire town in about two hours, including those steep hills. And the cliche is true here -- crime is at a minimum (after all, everyone knows each other). We spotted several cars and golf carts with the keys left inside.
3. It's not too touristy
No cheesy attractions. Trinket shops are hidden among the real book stores, clothing stores, restaurants and arcades the town's population frequent. The pace here is too-laid back to give visitors a hard sell, so no one does. I'm sure you could find some goofy, touristy things here, but they won't find you.
4. Wrigley Botanical Garden and Memorial
If the Casino Ballroom is the island's most well-known jewel, this is its other major destination. Named after the family that still operates a good chunk of the island, and honoring the memory of William Wrigley Jr. (who helped develop Catalina), this is truly a mellow, solemn place. Climb to the top of the memorial for amazing views of Avalon Bay.
5. The island remains mostly untouched
Somehow, development doesn't reign here. A proposal to build condos, businesses and homes in Two Harbors has languished since the 1970s; that part of the island is still populated by just a few buildings and homes.
On the flip side.... Restaurants here are fine, but reside on the side of medicore. And don't plan on swimming here -- at least in Avalon, where you're sharing the water with boats in the harbor. Plenty of people hop in the water, but it looked a little too murky for me.
After crowning the Mike's Birthday Race champs, Maria and I headed off to Avalon, on Santa Catalina Island, for a night. The island has been on our list of places to explore for years, and seemed like the perfect place to go away, but not too far away. And it truly was.
If anything, it's worth going just to satisfy your curiosity. I've heard random mentions of Catalina for years, such as how everyone drives around in golf carts, or how the Chicago Cubs used to spring train there when the team was owned by the Wrigley family, but I've never gotten a firm grasp on what the island looks like, or how it feels.
Hence the one-hour boat ride from San Pedro to Avalon. Not a bad ride at all -- Maria took her Dramamine, so she was all right, and I managed to get through only two sections of the Monday paper. We arrived and checked in at the Pavilion Lodge, which sports a boutique hotel-style look and feel after a multimillion dollar renovation. The hotel is right next to the waterfront. Actually, given how small the town is, everything is next to the waterfront.
Five reasons why heading to Avalon, even for the day, is worth your while:
1. The Casino Ballroom
You've seen this 12-story building for years, in photos or in live shots behind Johnny Mountain, Fritz Coleman or Dallas Raines as they read the forecast. The building is truly as amazing as it looks. Take the tour to check out the inside of the Avalon Theater (located below the ballroom), which looks more grand than any of the worn downtown Broadway theaters -- but unlike those theaters, this one still shows a movie every night. The upstairs ballroom offers up amazing views, and transports you back to the Big Band era.
2. The novelty of it all
There's just something odd about this town. Everything's so small. Souped-up golf carts line the streets. Fast food hasn't made a dent here. You can walk around the entire town in about two hours, including those steep hills. And the cliche is true here -- crime is at a minimum (after all, everyone knows each other). We spotted several cars and golf carts with the keys left inside.
3. It's not too touristy
No cheesy attractions. Trinket shops are hidden among the real book stores, clothing stores, restaurants and arcades the town's population frequent. The pace here is too-laid back to give visitors a hard sell, so no one does. I'm sure you could find some goofy, touristy things here, but they won't find you.
4. Wrigley Botanical Garden and Memorial
If the Casino Ballroom is the island's most well-known jewel, this is its other major destination. Named after the family that still operates a good chunk of the island, and honoring the memory of William Wrigley Jr. (who helped develop Catalina), this is truly a mellow, solemn place. Climb to the top of the memorial for amazing views of Avalon Bay.
5. The island remains mostly untouched
Somehow, development doesn't reign here. A proposal to build condos, businesses and homes in Two Harbors has languished since the 1970s; that part of the island is still populated by just a few buildings and homes.
On the flip side.... Restaurants here are fine, but reside on the side of medicore. And don't plan on swimming here -- at least in Avalon, where you're sharing the water with boats in the harbor. Plenty of people hop in the water, but it looked a little too murky for me.
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